This information is provided free of charge by the Department of Industrial Relations
from its web site at www.dir.ca.gov. These regulations are for the
convenience of the user and no representation or warranty is made that the information
is current or accurate. See full disclaimer at http://www.dir.ca.gov/od_pub/disclaimer.html.

§6652. Loading and Unloading Platforms.

(a) Safe access shall be provided to the top of tank cars, trucks, and trailers, if employees must go to such locations during loading and unloading operations.

(b) Where fixed platforms are provided for access, they shall be at least three feet (3') wide. It is permissible to install openings or equipment in the platform, if an unobstructed passageway at least sixteen inches (16") wide and six feet, six inches (6'6") high is maintained along the length of the platform.

(c) There shall be at least one stairway or ramp from the platform to the ground. If the loading platform is more than twenty-five feet (25') long, there shall be at least one stairway or ramp no farther than ten feet (10') from each end of the platform.

(d) Access from the fixed platform to the loading and unloading positions on tank cars, tank trucks or trailers shall be by any one of the following methods:

(1) By a gangplank hinged or otherwise fastened to the platform.

(A) When not in use, gangplanks shall be latched or otherwise secured in a raised position, except where they may be safely left in a lowered position.

(B) Gangplanks shall provide at least six feet six inches (6' 6") vertical clearance and shall be at least twenty-four inches (24") wide, and shall be provided with standard railings or other safeguards that will protect employees from falling.

EXCEPTION: Toeboards are not required on gangplanks.

(2) By stepping directly from the fixed platform to the side catwalk or top of the tank truck or trailer, if the vertical distance stepped is no more than fifteen inches (15"), and if the combined vertical and horizontal distance stepped is no more than twenty inches (20").

(A) Loading and unloading from side catwalks less than six inches (6") wide is prohibited.

(B) Loading and unloading from the side of a tank car, truck or trailer is prohibited, unless safe access or fall protection is provided. Unobstructed passageway shall be provided from the platform to the catwalk.

This passageway shall be at least sixteen inches (16") wide and six feet six inches (6' 6") high.

(3) By other means affording equivalent protection.

(e) When it is necessary for employees to go on the top of tank cars, trucks or trailers during loading and unloading operations, a vertical clearance of at least six feet six inches (6'6") shall be provided between the top of the tank car, truck or trailer and fixed members or fixed parts of the loading rack. This does not apply to movable loading spouts or arms.